TO THE VICTORIA & GEORGE CROSS

A native of Denmark, Benson joined the U.S. Navy from Yokohama, Japan. By June 20, 1872, he was serving as a seaman on the USS Ossipee. On that day, he jumped overboard and attempted to rescue Landsman John K. Smith from drowning. For this action, he was awarded the Medal of Honor four months later, on October 10.

MOH CITATION:

On board the U.S.S. Ossipee, 20 June 1872. Risking his life, Benson leaped into the sea while the ship was going at a speed of 4 knots and endeavored to save John K. Smith, landsman, of the same vessel, from drowning.